Last week, auditions were held for the new spring musical. Over 70 students were there trying out. The musical, “Guys and Dolls,” is a romantic comedy, and some people felt their personality was perfect to try out. Junior Jared Dunn explained his thought when the musical was announced, “When I heard this was going to be a comedy, I said ‘Oh yeah, this is my time to shine.” 

  There are multiple Millbrook groups involved to help with the upcoming theater production. Mr. Payne, the band teacher, and the band, are producing the music, along with Ms. Cruz the dance teacher and dance, who are participating in the musical. Before auditions start, the musical has to be picked. “I have a lot of different people working with me, including the performing arts teachers, and since they are all working with me, I want to find one everyone will enjoy working on,” the director, Mr. Kotzian, said. 

  Along with helping with the musical, Ms. Cruz and Mr. Adams also helped with auditions. Students trying out rotated through acting the monologue with Mr. Kotzian, dancing a combo with Ms. Cruz, and singing a song of their choice with Mr. Adams. All of these components can make musical auditions difficult. Junior Keira Brock said, “This audition process was very different from the ones I have done in the past. It was stressful with monologues involved.” 

  Auditions can be stressful for both the director and the people trying out. Mr. K explains, “I wish someone else would do it for me. It’s one of the hardest things to do, especially when you work with so many talented people.” Some of the students agree, but most have a more positive look. Dunn is a good example of this, when he said, “Simply it’s fun. Just give it your best.” 

  Auditions are also a way to bring friends and people with similar interests together. “I have a lot of friends here,” junior Nicholas Rivera said. “So I like having an extra circular like this.” Many also continue to do Millbrook theater because of the environment created. Senior Abby Martin said, “I’ve been doing theater for a long time, and I love Millbrook theater along with the community here.” 

  Auditions are important to not only find the right fit for a role but also to get to know the people interested in the school’s arts. Mr. K responded to this with, “If you give me someone that wants to work, someone who is kind, thoughtful, responsible, and dependable, those are the people that you want to work with.” 

  Auditions might be stressful, but the reward of making a role is exciting. Brock said, “A big part of theater is about breaking your legs and getting over your fears.”